ZACH BIRDSONG TCS Contributor

Tullahoma City Schools was recently awarded $59,410 in grant funds from the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee.

The funds that TCS received came specifically from the Lillian Ashley Field of Interest Fund of the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee. Ashley was born in Manchester, attended Ward Belmont in Nashville, and graduated from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville with a degree in elementary education. Following a life filled with extensive travel, Ashley wanted to give back to her community. She specified that her estate would benefit the children, animals and environment of Coffee County.

East Lincoln Elementary School received $20,000 in two separate grants. The school will use $12,000 to provide students with safe, high-quality afterschool supervision that offers academic support and enrichment opportunities. An additional $8,000 will go toward ensuring that all students have basic needs – including clothing, participation fees, and/or after-school support.

The TCS Coordinated School Health Department received $10,800. These funds will be used for mental health programs and training for the Sources of Strength programs at the middle and high school levels.

Tullahoma High School will use $10,340 for a digital Wall of Fame board to be housed in the cafeteria lobby. This panel will allow users to browse every THS yearbook, explore school records and milestones, view student art and performances, learn about notable alums and discover upcoming events and opportunities. This interactive format will promote engagement beyond static displays and support multiple definitions of student success.

East Middle School received $10,000 to support students’ basic needs, including clothing, toiletries, school supplies and other items needed for the school day. Bel-Aire Elementary School will use $6,000 to support fifth-grade students attending BizTown, with additional funds going toward an arts after-school program. Robert E. Lee Elementary School will use $2,270 for fifth-grade students to attend and participate in BizTown.

“As you can see, these grant funds will be used in a variety of ways that will benefit all students and ensure that we continue to have safe, welcoming and positive learning environments,” said TCS Director of Schools, Dr. Catherine Stephens. “We are so fortunate to have incredible community partners, such as the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee and the Lillian Ashley Fund, who help us in our efforts to serve and support students.”

Learn more about the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee by visiting its website at https://www. cfmt.org/.